AWFS

Despite what we all know are tough economic times, many tool and woodworking-product manufacturers continue to bring new and innovative tools to the market. I got to see many of these first-hand the past few days at the Association of Woodworking and Furnishings Suppliers Fair in Las Vegas, the biggest U.S. tradeshow of the year for woodworking. Over 500 manufacturers showed up to display and demonstrate their new products (and some launched in recent years), hoping to generate business with retail distributors and end users.

The Association of Woodworking and Furnishings Suppliers 2009 Fair in Las Vegas is now over, so it’s time to reflect on the show with random thoughts, Larry-King style…

… It’s so unbelievably hot (always above 100°) in Vegas in July; I honestly don’t know how people can live there. Granted, it’s not living on the sun, but it’s the closest I’ve been to that. I have to drink so much water and eat bananas to avoid dehydration it’s almost crazy. Now maybe if this event took place in the winter months I’d be on board. (At least it’s comfortably in the convention center and hotels.) Read more

Day 2’s biggest news at the Association of Woodworking and Furnishings Suppliers Fair in Las Vegas was the revelation that Rikon Power Tools is launching nearly two dozen new tools. While many manufacturers debuted anywhere from zero to six new tools—primarily because the down economy has put a hold on product development—Rikon rolled out 20 new models. This effectively doubles Rikon’s product line.

The coolest thing I saw on the opening day of the Association of Woodworking and Furnishings Suppliers Fair in Las Vegas was an ingenious product that creates a shortcut previously only available with expensive equipment. Beaded face frames can make ordinary cabinets really sparkle, and the Kreg Tool Company’s new Precision Beaded Face-Frame System can make them on any router table. Read more